Apple is giving the iPhone a new feature that shuts off notifications while driving

Apple’s iPhones will soon be getting a much-desired new safety feature intended to cut down on distracted driving.

When the company releases its new iOS 11 operating system for its smartphones later this year, the software will come with a “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode. The new feature will detect when you’re driving and turn off all notifications. You won’t even be able to get to your homescreen to open any apps until you’re done driving.

You’ll also be able to set an automatic text response that will go out while the feature is on to notify your friends and family members that you’re behind the wheel.

The feature will assume you are driving if your phone is connected to the car via Bluetooth. Alternatively, it will be able to use your phone’s WiFi antenna to sense when you’re moving at car speeds.

You’ll be able to override the Do Not Disturb While Driving feature by turning on the screen with the iPhone power button and then clicking on a button marked “I’m not driving.” Apple will prompt you to use the feature after you take your first drive with an iOS 11-powered iPhone.

Notably, Apple is announcing the new feature six months after it was sued for not including one like it in a case involving a fatal car crash that was blamed on a teenager driving while using the iPhone’s FaceTime video calling app.

NOW WATCH: Tech Insider videos

Want to read a more in-depth view on the trends influencing Australian business and the global economy? BI / Research is designed to help executives and industry leaders understand the major challenges and opportunities for industry, technology, strategy and the economy in the future. Sign up for free at research.businessinsider.com.au.